Reid from Checkpoint's Rudeboy Custom X7 Toyota Cressida silhouette kaido racer build being driven down a two lane road.

Reid’s Silhouette Kaido Racer X7 Cressida in Canada!

Reid has again done it and built a car that staggered us all. This project showcases an insane build redefining this niche of North American custom car culture influenced by the East. Dylan spearheaded filming this project, which took nearly 400 hours of dedicated filming and editing to capture every detail of this build.

The beginning of Reid from Checkpoint's Rudeboy Custom X7 Toyota Cressida silhouette kaido racer build
Sketches of Reid from Checkpoint's Rudeboy Custom X7 Toyota Cressida silhouette kaido racer build

To understand why this build is so significant, it’s essential to explore the roots of its style. Kaido racers, often misrepresented as Bosozoku cars, originated in Japan during the late 1970s and early 1980s. These vehicles are known for their exaggerated body kits, towering spoilers, flared fenders, and outlandish designs inspired by Japanese touring cars and Group 5 silhouette racers. If you are a fan of Checkpoint Japan it is unlikely that you are a stranger to these cars at this point.

Framework begins for Reid from Checkpoint's Rudeboy Custom X7 Toyota Cressida silhouette kaido racer build.
Reid from Checkpoint painting the Rudeboy Custom X7 Toyota Cressida silhouette kaido racer build silver.

Silhouette cars, in particular, emphasize aggressive, futuristic styling with dramatic aero modifications and extended body panels that transform the car into something straight out of one of the most exciting periods of motorsports. Over the years, Kaido racers have become symbolic of Japan’s rich automotive heritage and continue to inspire builders worldwide.

Photo of Reid from Checkpoint's Rudeboy Custom X7 Toyota Cressida silhouette kaido racer build at sunset with a mountain in the background.

What sets this build apart is its status as one of the first silhouette-style kaido racers in North America. While the style has been popular in Japan for decades, it remains a rarity on this side of the ocean. Reid’s creation has already generated buzz among Japanese car enthusiasts, with many expressing excitement about seeing this style of a kaido racer cross borders.

Photo of Reid from Checkpoint's Rudeboy Custom X7 Toyota Cressida silhouette kaido racer build at sunset with equipment in the background.

In fact, this project has caught the attention of enthusiasts in Japan, with social media shares and comments pouring in from people who are amazed at the level of detail and authenticity captured in the build. It serves as a cultural bridge, celebrating Japan’s automotive history while proving that kaido racer culture can have a place in North America.

Photo of Reid from Checkpoint's Rudeboy Custom X7 Toyota Cressida silhouette kaido racer build at night at Summer Touring 2024.

This silhouette build is more than just a car—it’s a statement. It challenges traditional automotive norms and paves the way for more builds that embrace bold designs and cultural fusion. With this project, a new standard for what’s possible in custom car culture has been set, inspiring builders and enthusiasts to dream bigger and create wilder.

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